Residents of western Odisha enthusiastically celebrated Sambalpuri Day (Sambalpuri Din), embracing their cultural roots by wearing traditional Sambalpuri handloom clothing, savoring local dishes, and participating in various cultural events that highlighted the area’s linguistic and artistic legacy.
Observed every year on August 1, this day honors the birth of Guru Satya Narayan Bohidar, a notable scholar recognized for his efforts in safeguarding and promoting the Sambalpuri language. Bohidar, born in 1913, was the author of Sambalpuri Bhasakosh, the first dictionary of the language, and wrote several literary pieces, including Tik Chahnra, Ghuvkudu, and Ghavghavo.
The Sambalpuri language is spoken in nine districts of western Odisha: Sambalpur, Balangir, Jharsuguda, Kalahandi, Boudh, Sundargarh, Deogarh, Nuapada, and Subarnapur, and it plays a vital role in defining the cultural identity of the region.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi extended his greetings to the people, emphasizing that the Sambalpuri language, along with its folk art, music, dance, and handloom traditions, represents